CREATIVITY and imagination are commodities Nuneaton Borough have missed of late but in new signing Scott Rickards and injury-hit Martin Reeves manager Roger Ashby sees new hope for his ailing outfit.

Without a win in their last four league outings, Boro need inspiration for tonight's home game against fellow play-off challengers Droylsden (7.45pm).

And in Rickards, who starred on his debut at Bower Fold, and the influential Reeves, also an eye-catcher, there's skill in abundance and Ashby reckons the midfield pair will ignite Manor Park tonight.

"Both Scott and Martin are talented players with the ability to open up defences.

"I thought the pair were outstanding at Stalybridge.

"Scott was a constant threat and is going to be a key man over the last ten games and if Martin can stay fit then we have one of the most creative midfielders in the league."

Boro look certain to be missing striker Duane Darby, with a hamstring strain, while long term absentees David Staff and Stuart Whittaker are still sidelined.

"Obviously we need to brush up our finishing and with Duane very doubtful, whoever plays up front the pressure is on to get goals.

"We have an abundance of strikers and until I know the situation with Duane I will keep my cards close to my chest," added Ashby, who has Brian Quailey back in the squad after his partner gave birth to a baby boy at the weekend.

Gez Murphy, Michael Frew, Jason Taylor, Ian Foster and Kevin Wilkin, who deputised for Darby, on Saturday plus Quailey are all in contention as Boro desperately search for a win.

"Droylsden are big, strong and attack-minded. We drew 2-2 at their place but the onus is on us to get all three points tonight," added Ashby.